Easy Pinwheel Recipe: A Delicious and Fun Snack or Appetizer
This easy pinwheel recipe is perfect for parties, potlucks, or a fun weeknight snack. They're simple to make, incredibly versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. These pinwheels are also great for meal prepping – make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated crescent roll dough: This is the base of our delicious pinwheels. You can find this easily in most grocery stores.
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce: Adds a savory, tangy flavor. You can adjust this based on your preference.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: A classic choice, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses! Pepper jack, cheddar, or provolone would all work well.
- 1/2 cup your favorite toppings: This is where you can get creative! Here are some ideas:
- Pepperoni: A classic pizza topping.
- Sausage: Adds a meaty flavor.
- Ham: Provides a salty and savory taste.
- Spinach: For a healthy boost.
- Mushrooms: Earthy and flavorful.
- Onions: Adds a bit of bite.
- Bell peppers: A pop of color and sweetness.
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your pinwheels bake perfectly.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough: Carefully open the package and lay the dough out on a lightly floured surface.
- Spread the pizza sauce: Evenly distribute the pizza sauce over the dough. Don't overload it – a thin layer is best.
- Sprinkle the cheese: Generously sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Add your toppings: Scatter your favorite toppings evenly across the cheese.
- Roll it up: Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log.
- Slice into pinwheels: Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 1-inch thick slices.
- Arrange on a baking sheet: Place the pinwheels onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each one.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
- Cool slightly before serving: Let them cool just a bit so they can firm up before enjoying.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a sprinkle of garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning to the pizza sauce.
- Make it spicy: Add some red pepper flakes to the sauce or use a spicy sausage.
- Get creative with the toppings: Use any combination of your favorite ingredients. Leftover cooked chicken or vegetables work great!
- Make it a breakfast pinwheel: Use cream cheese instead of pizza sauce and add bacon, sausage, or chives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I freeze pinwheels? Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pinwheels before baking. Bake from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time.
- What kind of cheese should I use? Mozzarella is a classic choice, but you can use any cheese you like.
- Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the pinwheels ahead of time and bake them when ready.
This easy pinwheel recipe is a guaranteed hit! Enjoy experimenting with different toppings and finding your perfect combination. Happy baking!
